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Tropical Hardwood Hammock
courtesy U.S. Geological Survey
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Introduction
- Hardwood hammocks are home to many threatened and endangered plant species
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Tropical hardwood hammocks are found along both coasts of south Florida as well as throughout the Everglades and Florida Keys. In the northern portion of the Everglades, hammocks are dominated by trees of temperate origin including the live oak (Quercus virginiana) and the hackberry (Celtis laevigata).
Hackberry Leaves
© Steve Baskauf
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In contrast, throughout the Everglades south of Miami, the flora is dominated by tropical species, originating in the West Indies, with live oaks as the only significant temperate species. Tropical species were transported to the Everglades by migrating birds, winds, and water currents over a long period of time. Today there are more than 120 species of tropical plants, including trees and shrubs, that thrive in the hammocks of south Florida. Out of these 120 species, 36 are listed as endangered or threatened.
Tree Islands
courtesy U.S. Geological Survey
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